Karen Restivo
In Other Words....
Billions of dollars are spent on advertising and social media promoting flawless body types (plastic surgeries), nano technologies, premier automobiles, finest whiskeys and cigars, scientific skincare, and luxury goods all in the name of accelerating our image (figuratively and literally) to new heights.
Remember the old saying exemplifying our assent to the top, “Keeping up with the Jones’s?”
Competition is the fuel our desires and expectations run on to win the race.
Life can start to feel like one never-ending race, dare I say a rat race.
We’re going and going and growing and growing our pile of accomplishments and collectibles, while never fully enjoying the fruits of our labor.
Sure, we take vacations but never truly disconnect from the mental race going on in our heads.
We are easily identified by the things we surround ourselves with, at least what we believe is important to us.
The more reflective question I believe is, “Have I uncovered the real me?”
I’ve mentioned in past articles how author Richard Rohr uses the analogy of the vase in his book “Falling Upward.”
The first half of our life is focused on the exterior of the vase (the physical), it’s polished, intricate design, envied by many.
The second half of our life the focus switches to the interior contents of the vase (our spirit).
Does our external life match up with our internal spirit?
Ask yourself, “Have I cultivated self-awareness to reveal my soul’s purpose?”
“Am I free to be me?”
Why was there ever competition with others in your journey to self-discovery?
Look around, where did the competitors go when you find yourself standing at the end of your life; it was never about competition; it was never about a race.
In other words, the only thing you’ll carry across the finish line is the love you received in return for the love you gave through your own self-expression.
It’s what you were sent here to deliver.
Love is the gift.
Karenrestivo57@gmail.com